And the news is worse for black and Hispanic youngsters than for white children: The respective rates for black and Hispanic youngsters were 41 and 43 percent. Not surprisingly, obesity rates were higher in lower-income schools.

This epidemic is not something subject to debate, like the impact of human behavior on global warming. More of our kids are leading unhealthy lifestyles, centering largely around inactivity and poor eating habits, voluntary or involuntary.

They're going to be at risk not only for ridicule, but also for diabetes, high blood pressure and other maladies.

All of us who deal with children, from parents to schools to outside organizations, have to push for physical activity and healthy snacks for kids.